British actor, Idris Elba has described his visit to the Manhyia Palace during his time in Ghana as fascinating.
The celebrated British actor was invited to join Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the first Akwasidae of this year (2023)
Speaking on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the legendary actor said he was extremely astonished upon receiving an invite to visit Asantehene while filming his documentary on gold in Ghana.
Narrating some of the things that transpired during his meeting with the Asantehene, Idris Elba revealed how he was told to change his jeans into Kente cloth:
“so I showed up in my jeans. They were like, no, ‘you got to wear this kente cloth’. It was a really fascinating day. I mean, it was beautiful and the tradition was rich.”
He noted that he was nervous meeting the Asantehene for the first time – especially since he was not familiar with how to keep the Kente cloth stable.
“so when you meet the king, typically what you have to drop the kente cloth shoulder down a little bit and then shake the King’s hand. It’s part of the tradition like a symbol of respect.”
Idrissa Akuna Elba OBE is an alumnus of the National Youth Theatre in London, he is known for roles including Stringer Bell in the HBO series The Wire, DCI John Luther in the BBC One series Luther, and Nelson Mandela in the biographical film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.
.@idriselba shares his experience meeting the Ashanti king on his trip to Ghana. 👑 #Colbert pic.twitter.com/6l8xrAGRZm
— The Late Show (@colbertlateshow) March 9, 2023
